Since 2002, CoSN has been helping schools and districts with their data collection, reporting, and analysis in response to accountability mandates at the state level and federal requirements of No Child Left Behind. That work, was and continues to be an important facet of a comprehensive approach to data-driven decision making
Over the next year, CoSN’s 3D project will continue to provide support and information on data collection and reporting; but the primary focus has shifted to helping educators realize the power of data to personalize and individualize the learning process.
Today, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds are being spent at the state education agency level to build longitudinal data systems in order for policymakers, educators, parents and students to have the information they need to improve learning. While states are looking at ways to build systems and ensure data that follows students over time, K-12 districts are being challenged with new and additional data collection requirements and the district capacity to collect and report. At the same time, K-12 institutions are realizing the value of their own data and the importance of technology for data-driven decision making not only at the district level, but also for school administrators, teachers, students and parents.
Subsequently, CoSN’s 3D leadership initiative focuses on five key elements to accountability for data usage; (1) data culture and leadership (2) data governance to ensure Data Quality; (3) Data Professional Development and support for teachers and administrators; (4) Data systems for data collection and reporting; (5) Data tools for interpretation, utilization and analysis.
Examples of new work and ongoing activities:
Expand the current district assessment to include school level administrators and teachers. The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) launched its Data-driven Decision Making initiative, Vision to Know and Do, in February 2003 to help school district leaders use data effectively in decision-making. As part of this initiative, CoSN is now developing a robust survey tool to provide districts, schools and classrooms with survey tools to determine their readiness to use data-driven decision making for both accountability and continuous school improvement.
Expand the 3D website for K-12 technology leaders to include a robust Resource Center; case studies and best practices, interactive tools for collaboration and sharing information; web casts and up to date news and industry information.
3D Publications – CoSN’s 3D leadership initiative releases publications and newsletters that highlight the power of data to informed decision making; feature best practices in building data systems and data utilization; case studies that spotlight successes and barriers to success; and examples of data utilization for continuous student achievement.
Data-driven Decision Making Forums and Presentations – Each year 3D brings information to national, regional and state conferences on best practices in data usage for K-12 leaders. A 3D speaker’s bureau provides a wide variety of information and expertise in data collection, reporting, and data usage to improve learning.